Nicotrol

"Dec. 14, 2012 -- Smokers who take Chantix to stop smoking may be at higher risk for heart attacks and strokes compared to those who don't take the drug, the FDA says. But the increased risk is small and should be weighed against the risks of cont"...

Overdose from Inhalation

The oral LD50 for nicotine is > 5 mg/kg in dogs and > 24 mg/kg
in rodents. Death is due to respiratory paralysis. The oral minimum acute lethal
dose for nicotine in adult humans is reported to be 40 to 60 mg ( < 1 mg/kg).
The effects of using several cartridges in rapid succession are unknown (See
WARNINGS, Safety Note Concerning Children).

One cartridge of NICOTROL Inhaler contains 10 mg nicotine, of which, approximately
4 mg is delivered nicotine. It is unlikely that an excessive nicotine overdose
will occur via inhalation. Should such an overdose occur, however, with signs
of nicotine poisoning, the patient should be instructed to contact his/her physician
immediately. For additional emergency information, call your regional poison
center or call the National Capital Poison Center toll free (1-800-222-1222).

Overdose from Ingestion

Persons ingesting NICOTROL (nicotine inhalation system) Inhaler cartridges should be referred to a health
care facility for management. In unconscious patients with a secure airway,
instill activated charcoal via a nasogastric tube. A salinecathartic or sorbitol
may be added to the first dose of activated charcoal. Repeated doses of activated
charcoal should be administered as long as the cartridge remains in the gastrointestinal
tract since it will continue to release nicotine for many hours. The NICOTROL (nicotine inhalation system)
Inhaler cartridges can be identified with a radiogram.

Management of Nicotine Poisoning

Other supportive measures include diazepam or barbiturates for seizures, atropine
for excessive bronchial secretions or diarrhea, respiratory support for respiratory
failure, and vigorous fluid support for hypotension and cardiovascular collapse.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Use of NICOTROL (nicotine inhalation system) Inhaler therapy is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity
or allergy to nicotine or to menthol.

Last reviewed on RxList: 3/18/2009
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.